“And Jesus said to them, ‘Whose likeness and inscription is this?’ They said, ‘Caesar’s.’ Then he said to them, ‘Therefore render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.’” – Matthew 22:20-21
While this is a fascinating lesson on paying taxes, there’s a much deeper question raised by Jesus’ teaching. What things are God’s? What are we supposed to give to Him?
The coin was due to Caesar because it carried Caesar’s image and inscription. What carries the image and inscription of God? We do! We are each uniquely made in God’s image and His inscription is written into our very DNA. What then are we to give God? Ourselves! What portion of ourselves? ALL of ourselves.
Probably the greatest issue that prevents Christians from growing and fully experiencing God’s pleasure is that we refuse to give ALL of ourselves. Too often we want to budget a certain portion of our time, energy, and resources to God as if He were one of several good and worthy causes.
That isn’t what He asks for and it isn’t what He rewards. He invites and commands us to give ALL of ourselves. To fully commit every aspect of our life to Him – work and leisure, church and family, mind and body, wealth and talents. He’s clear about the rewards of such faithfulness: the experience of His joy, the joy of following Jesus to the cross, increasing Christlikeness, and rewards in eternity.
What’s holding you back from fully committing ALL of yourself to God? Are you willing to try fully giving to God what belongs to Him for a season? You won’t regret it!
NOTE: While Pastor Brian is on sabbatical, we offer this devotional which was originally published on February 3, 2021.